Acne Scar Treatment: Dermabrasion

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Dermabrasion for acne scars is a mechanical abrasion procedure to physically scrape scar tissue from the skin for a smoother, rejuvenated complexion.

Acne Scar Treatment: Dermabrasion Overview - 771

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The Skinny


Average Recovery

3 weeks

Permanence

Temporary

Application

Mechanical Abrasion

Surgical

No

Cost

$140 - $1700

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Before & After Images by Provider

Acne Scar Treatment: Dermabrasion Before, Female 36 - 1965Acne Scar Treatment: Dermabrasion After, Female 36 - 1965
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The Specifics


What is a dermabrasion for acne scar treatment?

There are numerous treatment methods for acne scarring. Dermabrasion is a plastic surgery procedure generally used to resurface the skin and even skin texture and skin tone. Dermabrasion involves mechanically exfoliating the skin with an abrasive handpiece to remove dead and damaged skin, and encourages the body to heal and produce new skin cells.

Dermabrasion results are comparable to deep chemical peels and fractional ablative laser treatments. The results of dermabrasion will be significant, but will require more recovery time than a less invasive acne scar treatment like dermal fillers.

What cosmetic concerns does a dermabrasion for acne scar procedure treat?

  1. Acne Scars: Mechanical abrasion of the top layers of skin and scar tissue in dermabrasion can reduce the appearance of acne scars by smoothing and evening the complexion.

Who is the ideal candidate for a dermabrasion for acne scar treatment?

The ideal candidate for a dermabrasion for acne scar treatment is of any age in generally good health with acne scars. Dermabrasion is not recommended for those with keratosis, active rosacea or acne, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, or lupus. Dermabrasion may cause certain skin conditions, like cold sores, to flare up. Those with a dark skin color or certain skin types should discuss the side effects of dermabrasion with their healthcare provider.

What is the average recovery associated with a dermabrasion for acne scar treatment?

The recovery time following a dermabrasion for acne scar treatment is generally two to three weeks. Swelling and pinkness may persist for a few weeks after the procedure. Candidates are advised to avoid strenuous activity, and limit sun exposure following the treatment. Careful skincare is important to lessen the risk of pigmentation abnormalities.

What are the potential side effects of a dermabrasion for acne scar treatment?

Possible side effects from a dermabrasion for acne scar treatment include erythema, bruising, prolonged swelling, changes in skin pigmentation, infection or scarring at the treatment site, allergic reaction, enlarged pores, and milia formation.

What can someone expect from the results of a dermabrasion for acne scar treatment?

The results of a dermabrasion for acne scar treatment are temporary improvements to the appearance of acne scars. The results of Dermabrasion treatments will improve over weeks as the healing process occurs and facial skin rejuvenates.

What is the average cost of a dermabrasion for acne scar treatment?


A dermabrasion for acne scar treatment can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,700. The actual cost of a dermabrasion for acne scar treatment is dependent upon location, board certified provider, and length and involvement of the cosmetic procedure.

thumbs-upPros

  • Improved Scars
  • Scar Treatment
  • Long Lasting

thumbs-downCons

  • Skin Irritation
  • Scarring
  • Skin Color May Change
  • Hyperpigmentation
  • Hypopigmentation
  • Blotchy Skin
  • Sun Sensitivity

Invasiveness Score

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10

Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.

What to Expect


Dermabrasion is a skin resurfacing technique that improves the appearance of scarred and aging skin. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after treatment with dermabrasion.

The Takeaway


Dermabrasion for acne scars is a mechanical abrasion cosmetic procedure to reduce the appearance of acne scars by removing the top layers of skin and scar tissue to reveal new refreshed skin.

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Source List

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AEDIT uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. Yanhan Wang, Tissa R. Hata Yun, Larry Tong, Christos C. Zouboulis, Richard L. Gallo, Chun-Ming Huang The Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Propionibacterium acnes CAMP Factor-Targeted Acne Vaccines ; 2018-11-11
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